This was brought home to me when reading the thought-provoking views of the scientist, Brian Swimme.
More than anything, they demonstrate the truth of evolution . . . how we are evolving creatures on an evolving planet in an evolving universe.
A planet which was once a state of molten rock and now sings opera!
And yet, and this is where it becomes so fascinating, evolution is taking place with no additional components . . . every atom that is here now was here at the very beginning.
But each atom is constantly changing . . . inhabiting, as it does so, a sequence of different forms.
"The universe," according to Brian Swimme, "is an inexhaustible celebration of ultimate mystery!"
Let's celebrate this mystery by looking at the bigger picture . . . and by asking some questions.
Have you ever stopped to think that the water which once gave buoyancy to Noah's Ark could, in its present embodiment, be trapped in plastic bottles in the local supermarket?
That the air we are breathing could well have flowed through the nostrils of the dinosaurs?
That the skeletons of our ancestors could have evolved, through time, to become part of our own bodily structures?
You've a new pair of shoes? Don't you believe it! The only thing that's new is the idea that conceived them . . . the creativity flowing through us which has flowed since the start of creation.
And where is consciousness in all this?At one time it was thought by scientists that consciousness was unique to human beings.
Now it's recognised that consciousness is universal, a life-force that illuminates all living things . . . what's more, together we shine more brightly.
In the words of Brian Swimme:
"We are the universe reflecting upon itself". . . reflecting whilst evolving, constantly evolving.
But this is a time of major transition, and all birth is painful. So let's end with the reassuring wisdom of the Hopi elders, who have just released the following statement:
To my fellow swimmers:
Here is a river flowing now very fast.
It is so great and swift that there are those who will be afraid, who will try to hold on to the shore.
They are being torn apart and will suffer greatly.
Know that the river has its destination.
The elders say we must let go of the shore.Push off into the middle of the river, and keep our heads above water.
And I say see who is there with you and celebrate.
At this time in history, we are to take nothing personally, least of all ourselves, for the moment we do, our spiritual growth and journey come to a halt.
The time of the lone wolf is over.
Gather yourselves.
Banish the word struggle from your attitude and vocabulary.
All that we do now must be done in a sacred manner and in celebration.
For we are the ones we have been waiting for.
